1. I was tormented for a while by the executioner's noose
It scorches my ribs with its claw

2. And I found myself jailed in the governor's custody
My tears pouring over crushed barley bread

3. And I said maybe if the wise one saw
My sickness, he would cure my ailment and submission

4. But instead my provisions became prey for the boys of his house
And my worries seemed insignificant to him, and my despair

5. And the infrequency of my grooming before him
Led him to summon my complete shaving

6. Yet still I came seeking the prince
For he will outline for me from his bounty my deliverance